Krishneel Deo’s recent investment of $600,000 has culminated in the launch of Delaivuna Farm Fresh, a new poultry mill located in Tovata, Makoi. The inauguration ceremony took place last Saturday, where Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad highlighted the project’s significance in enhancing Fiji’s agricultural sector through vision and endurance.
Professor Prasad commended Deo and his family’s dedication in successfully transforming Delaivuna Farm Fresh from a small poultry operation into a comprehensive enterprise that includes a feed mill. He emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as vital contributors to job creation and economic growth in Fiji.
Delaivuna Farm Fresh’s accomplishments have already earned it recognition, including the Fiji Development Bank SME Awards for “Most Disaster Resilient Business” in 2018 and “Developing SME” in 2017, showcasing its capacity to adapt and thrive amidst various challenges.
The Deputy Prime Minister provided insights into the impact of this venture, noting that the poultry mill has created approximately 100 jobs during its construction phase and currently supports 50 local jobs, with promising potential for future growth. The establishment of the mill not only empowers the local economy but also reflects the government’s strategy to reduce reliance on imports through investment in national agriculture.
In alignment with this project, the government has implemented various supportive measures such as duty concessions on essential materials and equipment used in the feed production process, along with financial assistance via a 4 percent interest rate subsidy on loans through the Fiji Development Bank. This financial support is intended to lower borrowing costs and encourage expansion in the agricultural sector.
Moreover, Delaivuna Farm Fresh plans to diversify its operations by venturing into soya and corn farming, employing local farmers for ingredient sourcing, thereby strengthening domestic agricultural value chains and creating new opportunities within the sector.
Overall, the development of Delaivuna Farm Fresh not only symbolizes progress for individual entrepreneurs like Krishneel Deo but also represents a broader governmental push toward agricultural self-sufficiency and economic diversification, fostering hope for a resilient and thriving agricultural future in Fiji.
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